The Palace is delighted to be taking part in Heritage Open Days for the 8th year, opening the doors for free anyone who’d like to have a quick look inside or join us for a free illustrated talk!
The Palace Cinema in Broadstairs has operated full-time since 1966, currently with its fourth owners. There are lots of stories about the films, cinema staff and visitors that the cinema has welcomed over those busy decades, as well as the previous lives of the building as a museum, dance hall, summer home for puppet theatres, wheelwrights and much more!
We look forward to welcoming visitors 11:00-14:00 on Fri 18 and Sat 19 Sept, with free 45min illustrated talks both days at 13:00. Talks cover the history of the cinema and also this year’s Heritage Open Days theme of ‘Everyday Histories’.
The Palace takes the opportunity of ‘Everyday Histories’ to shine an usher torch on the un-sung, and often young, cinema staff like usherettes, rewind boys, assistant relief cashiers and other junior roles essential for all local cinemas from the 1930s-‘70s. Where were their jobs advertised? What was the training, and the uniform? What were the best and worst parts of the job? All will be revealed, including memories and photos from some local residents who contributed to the smooth running of the Palace and many of the other much-loved dreamhouses and flea pits of our corner of Kent.
No booking required, please just arrive on the day.
Lots more places to visit for free in Thanet during the full nine Heritage Open Days 11-20 September! Details click HERE
Director: Palace Cinema
Starring: Palace Cinema, usherettes, rewind boys, cashiers…
Year: 2026
Language: In English
Country: UK
Running time: 3hrs